The R36MAX arrived at the end of 2024 as a direct evolution of the popular R36S, bringing notable improvements in design and display while maintaining a focus on an extremely competitive price. With the goal of becoming the best variation in the lineup, it bets on refinements that aim to elevate the user experience—but does it really earn that top spot? That’s what we’ll explore in this full review.
R36MAX Design: Compact and Lightweight
Design is one of the R36MAX’s strongest assets, adopting a vertical form factor reminiscent of the classic Game Boy, with rounded corners that ensure comfort during use. Its dimensions of 83 x 153 x 35 mm strike a good balance between size and ergonomics, making it easy to hold for long gaming sessions without discomfort.
The R36MAX is also lightweight, reinforcing its portable appeal, and is available in colors to suit different tastes: black, white, transparent blue, and transparent red.
R36MAX Controls: Complete and Precise
Controls are a major highlight of the R36MAX, offering a full layout that’s well distributed across the device. It features dual analog sticks, ABXY buttons, and L1/L2 and R1/R2 triggers.
Additional buttons include FN, Select, Start, and Volume, ensuring versatility for different game styles and intuitive navigation through menus.
R36MAX Connectivity: Standard for the Series
The R36 MAX maintains a connectivity setup similar to the R36S, ensuring compatibility with accessories and peripherals already familiar to fans of the series. It includes a USB-C port with OTG support, allowing connection to controllers, flash drives, and other external devices.
It also features a 3.5mm headphone jack, ideal for players who prefer immersive audio or need to play in quiet environments.
R36 MAX Display: 4-Inch IPS with 720x720 Resolution
The R36MAX sports a 4-inch IPS display with a 720x720 resolution, delivering vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles, even in bright environments.
A key feature is its 1:1 aspect ratio, which fits perfectly with classic platforms like Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Neo Geo Pocket. This eliminates black bars and preserves the original format of retro games, offering a more authentic and immersive experience.
R36 MAX Battery: 4000mAh with Up to 8 Hours of Playtime
Equipped with a 4000mAh battery, the R36MAX offers up to 8 hours of continuous use, which is excellent for extended gaming sessions without frequent recharging. Battery life may vary depending on game type and screen brightness, but overall, it delivers efficient energy performance for a handheld console.
Charging is done via USB-C, providing modern convenience and compatibility with current chargers. A full charge takes approximately 2 hours.
R36 MAX Processor and Storage: RK3326 with 1GB RAM
The R36 MAX runs on the RK3326 quad-core chip paired with 1GB of RAM, a combination that ensures smooth performance in emulators up to the PlayStation 1 and Nintendo 64 era, and can even handle many PSP titles with good stability.
Storage options include 64GB or 128GB via SD card, often preloaded with thousands of games for plug-and-play convenience. For those wanting more space, it supports microSD cards up to 256GB, allowing users to store tens of thousands of retro titles while keeping the system organized and responsive.
Operating System + Emulatable Platforms on R36 MAX
The R36 MAX runs on ROCKNIX Linux, a lightweight and efficient OS designed for emulation, featuring a custom interface that simplifies navigation between games and system settings.
Platforms That Run Perfectly:
- Arcades: CPS, FBA, MAME
- 8 & 16-bit consoles: NES, Master System, SNES, Mega Drive
- 32 & 64-bit consoles: PlayStation 1, Nintendo 64
- Handhelds: Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Neo Geo Pocket, Nintendo DS
- And more
Platforms That Run Many Titles:
- PlayStation Portable (PSP)
- Dreamcast (DC)
R36 MAX Price
The R36MAX is available for $30 to $40, depending on the seller and version chosen on AliExpress.
Is the R36 MAX Worth It in 2025? Final Thoughts and Alternatives
In 2025, the R36 MAX stands out as a solid handheld option for those who value quality retro emulation and practicality. It brings together a balanced feature set: compact vertical design, high-resolution IPS screen, responsive full controls, and an optimized system that makes navigation easy. With long battery life and functional connectivity, it delivers a complete experience—all at an affordable price that makes it even more appealing for those wanting to dive into the world of retro gaming without spending much.
Alternatives to the R36MAX in 2025:
- Miyoo Mini Plus: More compact and lightweight, with a strong customization community and similar pricing.
- R36 Ultra: Nearly identical to the R36MAX but includes Wi-Fi and a 3000mAh battery. Often found at a lower price.
- R36T: Offers a unique feature—a screen that simulates CRT monitor effects, priced similarly.
- Trimui Smart Brick: Focuses on a compact design with metal accents. More portable, but sacrifices ergonomics and performance. Ideal for those who prioritize premium build quality.
